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Camping and Outdoor Recreation Near Cincinnati

Despite the many incredible things to do in Cincinnati, sometimes it’s nice to take a break from the usual scene and surroundings. Taking advantage of the abundant options for outdoor recreation and camping near Cincinnati is one way to get away without having to buy a plane ticket or spend hours on the road. In fact, numerous opportunities for camping near Cincinnati are available just in Ohio State Parks and within less than 50 miles from many residential locations in and around the city. Keep reading to learn more about 5 popular camping spots near Cincinnati and some of the outdoor recreation available at each site!

5 Great Camping Spots Near Cincinnati

As shared by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, there are over 60 Ohio State Park campgrounds that feature multiple campsite options, from tent-only camping to sites with full-service hookups. On the reservation site, you can search by city or park name and then further refine based on dates of travel, site type and camping equipment. If you are interested in camping near Cincinnati, the list below includes Ohio State Parks that are approximately 50 miles from the city that have campgrounds and various opportunities for outdoor recreation.

1. East Fork State Park: The campground at this location is open year-round and is pet-friendly. Camping options include electric and full-hookup sites, as well as several equestrian sites. There is also a beach area and boat ramp on Harsha Lake specifically for campground guests, as well as a seasonal camp store. Campers are encouraged to bring outdoor equipment like bikes and kayaks, but rentals are also available at this site. Outside of the activities to enjoy at the campground, East Fork State Park offers assorted amenities such as the two archery ranges and many trails for hiking, biking, or riding. Younger visitors may especially enjoy the Storybook Trail – a half-mile trail that presents a children’s story along the way!
2. Hueston Woods State Park: In addition to being a noteworthy bird watching and fossil collection spot, the park has a 3-acre, fenced-in dog park and dog swim area, as well as a haiku trail. This state park also offers a choice between two options for your stay. At Hueston Woods State Park Campground – a year-round campground, find both electric and non-electric campsites as well as an equestrian camp area. If you’d prefer to camp in a cabin (or in even more luxurious accommodations), then the Hueston Woods Lodge & Conference Center might be your preferred option. On this property, guests can enjoy swimming in the indoor and outdoor pools, playing a round on the golf course or renting a pontoon boat to spend the day on Acton Lake.
3. Stonelick State Park: Enjoy wooded camping near Cincinnati at Stonelick State Park Campground. While there aren’t as many or as varied sites here as at other campsites, this pet-friendly campground may be a more tranquil setting for a much needed getaway. Several of the sites are even set right on the lake. In addition to the fishing pier and boat ramp, campers may enjoy time at the playground or competing in games of pickle ball, basketball, horseshoes and more! In addition to the opportunities for outdoor recreation at the campground and in the state park, don’t miss the special events that take place at different parks throughout the year, such as the Oktoberfest and Haunted Trail events at Stonelick State Park Campground!
4. Caesar Creek State Park: In addition to the bridle camp with its own designated area, the pet-friendly Caesar Creek State Park Campground includes both electric and full hookup sites. A popular hiking spot with features like waterfalls and a swinging bridge, Caesar Creek State Park also offers multiple trails for biking and horseback riding. Additionally, there are five boat launch ramps located around the over 2,800 acre lake and a designated public beach, as well as a specific area for pets.
5. Cowan Lake State Park: With over 250 campsites and more than 20 fully-equipped cabins, the Cowan Lake State Park Campground offers a scenic setting with numerous amenities, such as the Commissary, multiple playgrounds, a Gaga ball pit and a private beach for campers. One of the special features of the park itself is that it offers a pond for youth fishing in addition to the opportunity to fish for catfish, largemouth bass and more in Cowan Lake. The park also includes a public beach, a Storybook Trail, and 8 miles of hiking trails.

If you are looking for a vacation with plentiful outdoor recreation in Ohio, these five destinations for camping near Cincinnati are just a few of the many locations to consider. For assistance in finding a home in the Cincinnati area, contact our leasing agents today!